Southwest Airlines Sued by DOT, Frontier Fined for Chronically Delayed Flights
Southwest Airlines has found itself in hot water as the Department of Transportation (DOT) recently filed a lawsuit against the carrier, accusing them of operating chronically delayed flights. This legal action comes in the wake of a $2 million fine imposed on JetBlue Airways by the DOT for similar allegations. Additionally, Frontier Airlines has been slapped with a fine for late-arriving flights.
Southwest Airlines, a major player in the aviation industry, has come under scrutiny for its handling of flights from Chicago Midway International Airport to Oakland, California, and from Baltimore to Cleveland. The DOT revealed that these flights arrived late nearly 200 times between April and August 2022, with each flight experiencing chronic delays for five consecutive months. Shockingly, Southwest was found to be responsible for over 90% of these disruptions.
The DOT defines a flight as chronically delayed if it arrives more than 30 minutes late more than half the time after being flown at least 10 times a month. This calculation takes into account cancellations and diversions, painting a grim picture of consistent delays plaguing Southwest Airlines’ operations.
Southwest Responds to Allegations
In response to the allegations levied against them, Southwest Airlines expressed disappointment in the DOT’s decision to pursue legal action over flights that took place more than two years ago. The carrier highlighted its impeccable track record since the DOT’s chronically delayed flight policy was implemented in 2009, boasting over 20 million flights with no violations. Southwest vehemently denied any claims of unrealistic scheduling practices, citing their consistent performance over the past 15 years.
Frontier Airlines Faces Fines
On a separate note, budget carrier Frontier Airlines was fined $650,000 by the DOT for operating chronically delayed flights. However, the DOT offered a glimmer of hope by suspending $325,000 of the fine contingent upon Frontier’s ability to avoid repeatedly delayed flights over the next three years. Frontier Airlines chose not to provide any comment on the matter, leaving the public to speculate on their future operations.
The aviation industry’s spotlight has once again shifted to the critical issue of flight delays, prompting consumers to question the accountability of major airlines in ensuring timely and reliable services. As travelers eagerly await the outcome of these legal battles, it remains to be seen how airlines will adapt their practices to meet the DOT’s stringent standards and regain the trust of their passengers.
